Windows 10 Security Updates After 2025: Complete ESU Guide
Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, but Microsoft offers an option to keep your system protected. Discover everything about Extended Security Updates (ESU) and how they can help you.
Quick Summary: Windows 10 After 2025
- Windows 10 stops receiving free updates on October 14, 2025
- ESU for home users: $30 USD/year (price confirmed by Microsoft)
- ESU extends security updates until October 2028 (maximum 3 years)
- Alternative: Upgrade to Windows 11 for support until 2035
Table of Contents
What Are Extended Security Updates (ESU)?
Extended Security Updates (ESU) is a paid Microsoft program that provides critical security patches for operating systems that have reached end of life. For Windows 10, this program will be available after October 14, 2025.
This is the first time Microsoft is offering ESU for home users and not just businesses. This represents a significant shift in Microsoft's policy, recognizing that millions of users still rely on Windows 10.
Why Does Microsoft Offer ESU?
- Over 400 million PCs still run Windows 10
- Many devices don't meet Windows 11 requirements
- Businesses need time to plan migration
- Provides a safety net during transition
You can find more information on the official Microsoft ESU page.
Important Dates to Remember
14 October 2025
End of Windows 10 support. No more free security updates.
October 2025 - October 2026
First year of ESU available ($30 USD for home users).
October 2026 - October 2027
Second year of ESU (estimated price: $60 USD - pending confirmation).
October 2027 - October 2028
Third and final year of ESU (estimated price: $120 USD - pending confirmation).
October 2028
Absolute end of all security updates for Windows 10.
For more details about end of support, check our guide on Windows 10 end of support.
Windows 10 ESU Pricing: How Much Does It Cost?
Microsoft has established different pricing structures for home users and businesses. Here's the complete breakdown:
Home Users
| Period | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (2025-2026) | $30 USD | ✓ Confirmed by Microsoft |
| Year 2 (2026-2027) | Not announced | Pending from Microsoft |
| Year 3 (2027-2028) | Not announced | Pending from Microsoft |
Note: Microsoft has only confirmed Year 1 pricing ($30 USD). Years 2 and 3 pricing has NOT been officially announced. Based on the Windows 7 ESU program, prices could double each year, but this is speculation.
Businesses (Per Device)
| Period | Price | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $61 USD | Year 1 only |
| Year 2 | $122 USD | Includes Year 1+2 |
| Year 3 | $244 USD | Includes Years 1+2+3 |
💡 Cost Comparison: ESU vs Upgrading to Windows 11
1 Year of ESU
$30 USD
Security updates only, annual renewal
Windows 11 Pro
From $29.99
Lifetime license + support until 2035
If your PC meets Windows 11 requirements, upgrading offers better long-term value than ESU.
How to Buy Windows 10 ESU: Step-by-Step Guide
The ESU enrollment process is different for home users and businesses. Here we explain both methods:
For Home Users
- 1
Wait until October 2025
ESU will be available after end of support.
- 2
Open Windows Settings
Go to Settings > Update & Security.
- 3
Look for ESU option
Microsoft will add an option to purchase ESU directly.
- 4
Complete the purchase
Use your Microsoft account to pay $30 USD.
For Businesses
- 1
Contact your Microsoft partner
Or purchase through Volume Licensing Service Center.
- 2
Acquire ESU licenses
Licenses are sold per device.
- 3
Install the MAK key
Use SLMGR or group policies to deploy.
- 4
Activate and verify
Updates will start arriving automatically.
If you have activation issues, check our activation troubleshooting guide.
What's Included and Not Included in ESU
Included in ESU
- Critical security updates
- Patches for important vulnerabilities
- Emergency security fixes
- Malware definition updates
NOT Included in ESU
- New features or functionality
- Microsoft technical support
- Non-security bug fixes
- Driver updates
- Performance improvements
To keep your system secure without ESU, check our Windows 10 security tips.
Alternatives to ESU
Before paying for ESU, consider these alternatives that may be more economical and beneficial in the long term:
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
The best long-term option. Windows 11 will receive support until 2035 and offers better security and performance.
2. Use third-party security software
Third-party antivirus and firewalls can provide additional protection, though they don't completely replace operating system patches.
3. Isolate the system from Internet
For computers that don't need Internet connection, this eliminates most security risks.
4. Buy a new computer
If your PC doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements, it may be time to consider a new computer that comes with Windows 11 preinstalled.
Our Recommendation: ESU or Windows 11?
The best option depends on your specific situation. Here's how to decide:
Upgrade to Windows 11 if...
- Your PC meets Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, compatible CPU)
- You want long-term support (until 2035)
- You want new features and security improvements
Consider ESU if...
- Your hardware isn't compatible with Windows 11
- You need more time to plan your migration
- You have critical software that only works on Windows 10
To check if your PC is compatible with Windows 11, see our Windows 11 upgrade guide. If you decide to stay with Windows 10, visit our backup and recovery guide to protect your data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Windows 10 without ESU after October 2025?
Yes, Windows 10 will continue to work, but you won't receive security updates, which exposes your system to vulnerabilities.
Is ESU available for all Windows 10 editions?
ESU will be available for Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education. Each edition has different purchase options.
Can I buy ESU in advance?
No, ESU will only be available for purchase after October 14, 2025, when regular Windows 10 support ends.
Does Microsoft 365 include ESU for Windows 10?
As of December 2024, there is NO official confirmation that Microsoft 365 includes ESU. Some rumors suggest it might be included, but this is speculation. Check Microsoft's official page for updates.
View official Microsoft ESU pageWhat if I can't upgrade to Windows 11?
If your hardware isn't compatible with Windows 11, ESU is your best option to maintain security. You can also consider replacing your PC or using third-party security software.
Related Windows 10 Guides
Need Help Deciding?
If your PC is compatible with Windows 11, upgrading is the best long-term investment. If not, ESU gives you time to plan your next move.